The Osceola Daily News for Friday December 5, 2025
Celebrate the Season at St. Cloud’s Annual Tree
Lighting Winter Wonderland Tonight at 6pm
The magic of the holidays is set to sparkle tonight in downtown St. Cloud as the city hosts its Annual Tree Lighting – Winter Wonderland Ceremony from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at St. Cloud City Hall. This tradition will once again transform the area around City Hall into a celebration filled with lights, joy, and fun.
Around Osceola
Brandon Arrington Selected as New Osceola Chairman
KUA to Kick Off the Holiday Season with Home Alone 2
2025 Celebration Holiday Home Tour This Weekend
Kissimmee’s Festival of Lights Parade December 13
Christmas Parade Returns to Downtown St. Cloud
St. Cloud Unveils ‘Drone as First Responder’ Initiative
City of St. Cloud “Soldier City Sundays” Honor Vets
Early Learning Coalition to Host Free Family Fun Night
Osceola County Launches New Mobile Library, OLLie
The Magic of Christmas Returns to Downtown St. Cloud with the 62nd Annual Christmas Parade
The holiday season in St. Cloud will soon sparkle with joy and community spirit as the 62nd Annual St. Cloud Christmas Parade returns to Downtown St. Cloud on Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. Hosted by the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and the City of St. Cloud, this year’s parade theme — “The Magic of Christmas” — promises to fill the streets with festive cheer, colorful floats, marching bands, and holiday fun for all ages.
The iconic parade is presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, with support from Experience Kissimmee
The much-anticipated community tradition brings together residents, local organizations, and visitors to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Families can look forward to a magical morning filled with music, creativity, and of course, an appearance from Santa Claus himself! The event is free to the public, and everyone is invited to attend and enjoy the celebration. Those wishing to participate in the parade are encouraged to register soon before spaces fill up.
For more information, visit the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce.
Community Mourns the Loss of Beloved St. Cloud Resident and WWII Navy Veteran Dorothy “Pat” Rudd, 104
St. Cloud is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished residents and true American heroes. Dorothy “Pat” Rudd — a World War II U.S. Navy veteran, community advocate, and unforgettable presence at countless military and patriotic events — passed away Tuesday, December 2, at the age of 104.
Rudd, whose life spanned more than a century, was known throughout Osceola County for her genuine smile, steady salute, and unwavering dedication to honoring America’s veterans. Whether standing proudly at the Silver Spurs Rodeo, participating in Memorial Day ceremonies, or attending local tributes to the armed forces, Pat was always there — visible, vibrant, and deeply engaged in every effort that honored those who serve.
A Trailblazing Navy Veteran
Rudd’s extraordinary journey began during World War II, when she stepped forward to serve her country during a time when few women were permitted — or encouraged — to do so. Joining the U.S. Navy WAVES, she broke barriers with determination, courage, and grace. Her service not only contributed to the nation’s wartime efforts but also paved the way for future generations of women in the military.
Her late husband, U.S. Navy veteran Gerald Rudd, also left his mark in a unique way, helping build Frontierland at Walt Disney World
St. Cloud Unveils ‘Drone as First Responder’ Initiative, Bringing Faster, Smarter Public Safety Tools to the Community
The City of St. Cloud has officially launched Central Florida’s first Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, introducing a major advancement in how the community responds to emergencies. The new system is designed to improve response times, increase situational awareness, and enhance safety for both residents and first responders.
While the St. Cloud Police Department has used drones for more than a decade, officers previously had to deploy them manually at emergency scenes—often slowing down response efforts. The new DFR program changes that. It currently operates with two strategically placed drone dock stations, each housing a readyto-launch drone that can be deployed within seconds. Plans are already in motion to expand the network to four total dock stations, allowing broader coverage and even faster response times citywide.
“This Drone as First Responder program is a game-changer not only for our first responders, but for everyone in the City of St. Cloud,” said Police Chief Douglas Goerke. “We are putting eyes on an emergency scene faster than ever before, which allows us to gather life-saving information and de-escalate situations with greater precision. It’s about being smarter, faster, and safer for everyone.”
The drones will also support fire and EMS crews when needed, providing an overhead view that can enhance safety and decision-making.
Brandon Arrington Selected as New Chairman of Osceola County Commission; Cheryl Grieb Named Vice Chairwoman
During Monday’s Osceola County Board of County Commissioners meeting, District 3 Commissioner Brandon Arrington was elected by his fellow commissioners to serve as the board’s next Chairman. District 4 Commissioner Cheryl Grieb was selected to serve as Vice Chairwoman for the upcoming year.
Arrington assumes the role from District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer, who served as Chairwoman over the past year.
“I just wanted to express to the entire Board how very honored I have been to represent you in this community as your Chair for 2025,” said Commissioner Viviana Janer. “I hope that I have lived up to your expectations, thank you very much once again for the honor of being elected Chair.”
Arrington, who was first elected in 2008, has a long history of leadership on the board — previously serving as Chairman in 2011, 2015, 2017, 2021, 2022, and 2026. A Kissimmee native and Osceola High School graduate, Arrington also represents the county regionally through roles on the Orlando Economic Partnership Board, MetroPlan Orlando, and the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX).
He has also chaired several major regional organizations, including SunRail, Lynx, Workforce Central Florida, and the Central Florida Commission on Homelessness. Outside of county government, Arrington serves as Executive Director of Osceola Arts, championing community access to the arts.
Downtown Kissimmee’s Festival of Lights Parade to Illuminate Kissimmee’s Holiday Season on December 13
Downtown Kissimmee is preparing to shine brighter than ever as the City of Kissimmee hosts its annual Festival of Lights Parade on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The beloved tradition returns with family-friendly festivities, sparkling floats, and a full evening of holiday magic.
Before the parade steps off, the celebration begins at Kissimmee City Hall with the Holiday Festival. Families will enjoy:
• A dedicated Kids Power Zone, presented by KUA
• A festive Letters to Santa station
• Seasonal activities and entertainment to get everyone in the holiday spirit
• Parade Begins at 7:30 p.m.
At 7:30 p.m., the illuminated parade will move through Historic Downtown Kissimmee along Broadway, Sproule Street, Church Street, and Stewart Avenue. Spectators can look forward to glowing floats, costumed performers, marching groups, and community organizations bringing holiday cheer to thousands who line the streets each year.
KUA to Kick Off the Holiday Season with ‘Movie in the Park’ Featuring Home Alone 2 on December 5
The holiday season is set to shine a little brighter in Kissimmee as Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) brings its popular Movie in the Park series back to Kissimmee Lakefront Park on Thursday, December 5. This year’s feature film, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, will light up the big screen as families gather for an evening of festive fun and community spirit.
The free outdoor event will offer a wide range of holiday-themed activities for all ages, including inflatables, children’s crafts, a themed photo booth with Santa, and additional seasonal craft stations.
KUA will also be serving complimentary popcorn to add to the classic movie-night experience.
In the spirit of giving, guests are encouraged to bring a canned food item or a small cash donation. Contributions will grant access to the event’s snow slide attraction, with proceeds supporting a local nonprofit organization during the holiday season. Attendees are invited to bundle up, bring blankets and lawn chairs, and enjoy an unforgettable evening along the lakefront as Kissimmee celebrates the most wonderful time of the year.
NEWS
Celebrate the Season at St. Cloud’s Annual Tree Lighting
Winter Wonderland Tonight, Beginning at 6pm
The magic of the holidays is set to sparkle tonight in downtown St. Cloud as the city hosts its Annual Tree Lighting – Winter Wonderland Ceremony from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at St. Cloud City Hall.
This iconic community tradition will once again transform the area around City Hall into a festive celebration filled with lights, joy, and family-friendly fun.
Residents and visitors are invited to kick off the holiday season with an evening packed with activities and entertainment for all ages.
Guests can look forward to musical performances, hands-on crafts, and the chance for children to send their holiday wishes through letters to the North Pole.
A highlight of the night will be visits with Santa, giving families the perfect opportunity to snap a memorable photo with the jolly man in red.
The Winter Wonderland experience continues with carnival games, a thrilling snowslide, lively inflatables, and many more surprises designed to bring holiday cheer to the entire community.
The celebration invites the St. Cloud community to gather, connect, and enjoy the warmth and wonder of the season.
Osceola County Officially Launches OLLie, Its New Mobile Library Bringing Books, Wi-Fi, and Learning to Local
Osceola County, led by Commissioner Viviana Janer for District 2, library staff, and community members gathered Tuesday morning at Osceola Library’s Buenaventura Lakes branch for the official unveiling of OLLie, the library’s new mobile library unit designed to bring books, technology, and library services directly into neighborhoods across the county.
Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer, representing District 2, described OLLie as “a library on the move”—a flexible, modern option that will help the county reach residents who don’t live near a branch.
“By bringing story time, tech help, Wi-Fi, materials for checkout, and library resources right to the residents’ doorsteps, we are ensuring everyone has access to learning and connection,” Janer said. “We don’t want to leave anybody out in Osceola County.”
Coming in at a cost of about $140,000, the new mobile unit is outfitted with features designed to support families, students, and seniors. OLLie includes solarpowered energy, an onboard generator, an exterior awning and TV for outdoor games, books, toys and materials for all ages. Inside, residents will find five Chromebooks for tech tutoring, Wi-Fi hotspots capable of supporting up to 100 devices, and on-site printing, and more.
City of St. Cloud “Soldier City Sundays” Weekly Community Market at Veterans Park
The City of St. Cloud Veterans Council has launched its Soldier City Sundays — a new weekly community market and veterans resource event honoring St. Cloud’s proud heritage as The Soldier City.
The event happens every Sunday unless otherwise noted for holidays or special city events.
Visitors can look forward to a fun, family-friendly atmosphere featuring:
Local vendors, crafters, and food trucks
Live entertainment and music
Games and activities for all ages
Onsite veterans’ resources and support organizations
Admission is free, and everyone is encouraged to come out, shop local, and connect with neighbors while celebrating St. Cloud’s veteran community.
“Soldier City Sundays” is brought to you by the City of St. Cloud Veterans Council, which was established to honor and support veterans while strengthening community connections.
Early Learning Coalition and New Worlds Reading to Host Free Family Fun Night on December 11
The Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County is inviting families to a special evening of learning, fun, and community connection as the New Worlds Reading Initiative hosts a Family Literacy Night on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
The event will take place at The Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County, located at 1950 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in Kissimmee.
Designed to spark excitement around reading and support early literacy development, the Family Fun Night will feature a variety of activities for children and families, including reading games, interactive activities, a free book for every participating child, and a complimentary dinner.
The New Worlds Reading Initiative—Florida’s free at-home literacy program for eligible students—partners with families, educators, and community organizations to ensure children build strong reading foundations.
Events like this help connect parents and students with hands-on literacy experiences while strengthening early learning engagement across Osceola County.
Space is limited, and families are encouraged to RSVP to secure their spot.
LEGAL NEWS
Draper Law: Which vehicles are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents?
Sadly, serious and fatal accidents take place on a daily basis in Central Florida. These crashes can happen in a number of ways and can be caused by not following traffic laws, inexperience, intoxication, distracted driving, fatigue, and medical issues.
Statistics show that fatal car accidents can often occur based on the type of vehicle. You may think that sports cars are most likely to be in crashes due to their speed and performance. However, according to the NHTSA, it’s the everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roadways that are involved more frequently in serious or even deadly accidents, with sedans and pickup trucks accounting for more than three-quarters of fatal accidents. If you drive out on the roadways, here’s what you
Meet the 85-Year-Old Osceola County Air Force Veteran Fueling Second Harvest With 1,300 Hours of Volunteer Work
When 85-year-old Harold Sauter was in college, he heard a challenge that shaped the rest of his life. “This guy named John came along,” he recalls, referencing John F. Kennedy and his famous “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” message. “He said, ‘What do you think you can do for your country?’ That impressed me and stuck with me. Something in my mind said, ‘You’ve got to remember this.’ And I did.” That idea of giving back has guided him ever since.
Sauter went on to serve 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, coach college softball and women’s soccer, and embark on a career in the business world. He and his wife, Lorna, moved to Osceola County in 2009, where he coached softball at Celebration High School for seven years.
“Coach,” as many people call him, and Lorna started volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank during the pandemic. “We loved it,” he said. “We met so many great people up here, not a bad apple in the bunch. Just nice, hardworking people. Mr. Rogers always said, ‘Look for the helpers.’ Well, they’re here. They’re all here.”
Sauter, who has logged more than 1,300 volunteer hours at Second Harvest in the last five years, says he enjoys all the aspects of the work – from meat packing to working on the production line to doing dry sorting.
St. Cloud Golf Standout Karolyna Adams Signs With Tiffin, Capping an Extraordinary Academic and Athletic Journey
St. Cloud standout golfer Karolyna Adams will continue her playing career at the next level. The senior made it official Saturday morning, signing her scholarship papers before teammates, family, and friends in a ceremony at Royal St. Cloud Golf Club.
Adams, a four-time All-Orange Belt Conference selection, will play her college golf at Tiffin University in Ohio, a member of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference. Tiffin—a private institution currently ranked fourth in the East Region in the latest NCAA Division II national rankings—proved to be the perfect fit.
“We are thrilled to have Karolyna join our Dragon family,” Tiffin Coach Dawn West said. “She brings great enthusiasm not only for the game of golf, but for our women’s golf program. We look for Karolyna to come in and compete right away for one of our top five spots.”
With several opportunities in front of her, Adams said her decision came down to academics, environment, and connection. “It’s a small school and small campus, which really appealed to me. I didn’t want to go to a huge school where it would be easy to get lost in the shuffle,” she said. “It’s also a school with high academic standards. They offered a sports psychology program, and that’s exactly what I want to major in.”
She added that the team and coaching staff made Tiffin feel like home.
St. Cloud Golf Standout Karolyna Adams Signs With Tiffin, Capping an Extraordinary Academic and Athletic Journey
Four exceptional athletes from Osceola High and St. Cloud High turned years of dedication into opportunity Wednesday as they signed their National Letters of Intent to play college football.
At a ceremony at Osceola High, three players off the Kowboys regional semifinalist team made their choices. DB/WR Jakyri Watson accepted an offer to play at the University of South Florida, DL Amier Clarke is headed to Georgia Tech; while Athlete Alijah Jenkins will attend Clark Atlanta.
Meanwhile, Bulldogs DB/WR Bryce Williams committed to Middle Tennessee State University in a signing ceremony at St. Cloud High.
Injuries forced Watson, who was a three-year letterman and two-year starter at defensive back, to become a two-way player for the Kowboys in 2025. Although he missed four games with injuries himself, he managed to compile 806 all-purpose yards on offense and special teams – averaging 11.5 yards on 22 rushing attempts, catching nine balls for 127 yards, passing for 45, and compiling another 423 yards on kickoff and punt returns. He averaged 18.7 yards every time he touched the ball; while still recording 35 total tackles, two interceptions and two pass defenses on the other side of the ball.
Watson was a defensive mainstay on Osceola’s 2024 State Runner-up team that finished 13-4. He had two interceptions and finished with a team-high 26 pass defenses.
Step Into the Spirit of the Season at the 2025 Celebration
Holiday Home Tour & Magical Marketplace!
The holiday season is almost here, and there’s no better way to kick it off than with one of Central Florida’s most cherished traditions! The Celebration Foundation’s 2025 Holiday Home Tour & Magical Marketplace returns the first weekend of December—Saturday, December 6th (12 p.m. – 7 p.m.) and Sunday, December 7th (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)—inviting guests to experience The Happiest Holiday Weekend of the Year in the heart of Celebration, Florida.
This festive weekend offers a self-guided tour through beautifully decorated homes, each filled with holiday magic and creative inspiration. As you stroll through Celebration’s charming neighborhoods, you’ll enjoy the warmth, beauty, and sparkle of the season.
The event also features the Magical Marketplace, where visitors can shop for holiday décor, themed trees, ornaments, and one-of-a-kind gifts—making it the perfect stop to find something special for everyone on your list. ��
Proudly sponsored by Experience Kissimmee, Florida, this event celebrates community, creativity, and the joy of the holidays.
Tickets are on sale now! Don’t wait—secure yours today and make this the start of a new holiday tradition.
Park Hopping
Holidays at Walt Disney World 2025: A Festive Florida
Escape
As the most magical time of the year approaches, Central Florida’s own backyard destination — Walt Disney World — is preparing to sparkle brighter than ever, as the 2025 holiday season brings a dazzling lineup of Santa-ready charm, themed treats, twinkling décor, and festive experiences across all four theme parks, resort hotels, and Disney Springs through December 31, 2025.
Expect holiday cheer in:
Magic Kingdom
EPCOT
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney Springs shopping & dining district
Resort hotels across the property
Magic Kingdom: Traditional Holiday Magic
In Magic Kingdom, guests will be greeted with Main Street, U.S.A. decked in garlands, wreaths, and twinkling lights — a picture-perfect backdrop for holiday photos.
Park Hopping
Gaylord Palms Unwraps the Magic of the Season with ICE! Featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer & More
The holiday spirit returns bigger and brighter than ever to Gaylord Palms Resort as the resort transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland through January 7, 2026.
This year’s celebration brings back the beloved ICE! experience, featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ carved in over two million pounds of colorful ice. Guests can walk through larger-than-life scenes from the classic holiday tale, kept at a chilly nine degrees inside the resort’s signature frozen attraction.
But that’s just the beginning of the seasonal fun. Families can delight in the brand-new cirque spectacular, “POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance,” blending acrobatics, music, and holiday magic. Guests can also enjoy the frosty adventures of the Snow Factory, where they can slide, throw snowballs, and play in real snow — right here in Central Florida. Other festive favorites return as well, including gingerbread decorating, storytime with Mrs. Claus, and a holiday-themed escape room for those seeking a merry challenge. Across Gaylord Palms’ 65-acre resort, dazzling decorations, twinkling lights, and immersive displays will spread cheer around every corner.
Overnight guests will enjoy exclusive perks and extra opportunities to experience the magic up close — from early access to select activities to special room packages that make it easy to turn a day of fun into a weekend getaway.
Park Hopping
Your Wildest Car Ride Yet: Discover Animals from Around the World Right Here in Osceola County
With the school year back in full swing and education once again at the heart of our communities, there’s no better time to turn learning into an unforgettable, upclose adventure—and you don’t even need to leave your car to do it!
Located in the heart of Osceola County, just a short drive from Orlando, Wild Florida’s Drive-thru Safari Park offers families and animal lovers the rare opportunity to explore 170 acres of pristine Florida wilderness while encountering more than 150 exotic and native animals from across the globe.
From the safety and comfort of your own vehicle, you’ll cruise a four-mile trail and come face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more.
It’s a self-guided journey that feels like starring in your own wildlife documentary—without ever boarding a plane.
Insider Tip: Your admission includes unlimited loops through the safari on the same day, so take your time and enjoy every wild encounter. (Note: Convertibles, motorcycles, and vehicles without doors or roofs aren’t permitted for safety reasons.)
But the adventure doesn’t stop there.
Park Hopping
SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Dazzling Christmas Celebration for 2025 Season
The magic of the holidays returns to SeaWorld Orlando this year as the park launches its Christmas Celebration, scheduled for select nights from November 7, 2025 through January 5, 2026.
Promising a winter wonderland full of lights, festive entertainment, and holiday cheer, this year’s event is included with regular park admission — no extra ticket required.
What to Expect
SeaWorld is pulling out all the stops with a lineup of seasonal highlights designed to appeal to families, local visitors, and holiday lovers alike:
Millions of sparkling lights will transform the park into a nighttime spectacle.
Sea of Trees – stroll past dozens of illuminated trees floating on the lagoon, synchronized to holiday music.
Holiday Reflections: Fireworks & Fountains Finale – nightly fireworks and fountain displays set to festive tunes will cap off each event day.
Winter Wonderland on Ice – a Broadway-style ice skating show featuring dazzling visuals and seasonal music.
